Nigeria’s indomitable copyright guru and Chairman of the Board of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), Chief Tony Okoroji, has been honoured with a new award, Copyright Visionary Award, for transforming copyright protection in Nigeria.
In announcing the Awards, the Storyteller organization published the following:
We are thrilled to announce that Chief Tony Okoroji, Chairman of the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), has been chosen as the recipient of the prestigious Copyright Visionary Award 2024, by the advisory board of the Storyteller Awards. This award recognizes Chief Okoroji’s exceptional contributions and pioneering efforts in transforming copyright protection and the payment of royalties for the use of copyrighted works in Nigeria.
For many years, Chief Tony Okoroji has been at the forefront of the fight for copyright protection in Nigeria. Through his relentless dedication and unwavering commitment, he has successfully championed the cause of ensuring that creators and artists receive due compensation for their invaluable contributions to the country’s artistic landscape.
Chief Okoroji’s arduous journey has not been without challenges. He has faced numerous setbacks, including legal battles and criticism from various quarters. He has stood firm in his belief that copyright holders should have the right to fair remuneration for their creative works, even at the cost of personal friendships and reputational challenges.
Thanks to Chief Okoroji’s unwavering determination, the landscape of copyright protection in Nigeria has undergone a significant transformation. Today, music users such as television and radio stations, as well as hotel owners, understand that they must rightfully compensate artists for the use of their copyrighted works. This shift has not only given artists the recognition they deserve but has also laid the foundation for a more equitable and sustainable creative industry in Nigeria.
Chief Tony Okoroji’s pioneering work has not sought personal gain but has rather been driven by his passion for protecting the rights of creators and artists. His relentless efforts have helped reshape the narrative surrounding copyright protection in Nigeria and have paved the way for a more prosperous future for the creative community.
By bestowing the Copyright Visionary Award upon Chief Tony Okoroji, the Storyteller Awards acknowledges his remarkable achievements and the immense impact he has had on the copyright landscape in Nigeria. His selfless dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to all those in the creative industry and beyond.
We congratulate Chief Tony Okoroji on this well-deserved recognition. His tireless advocacy and unwavering commitment to copyright protection have not only earned him the respect and admiration of his peers but have also left an indelible mark on the Nigerian creative landscape. We applaud his unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of artists and musicians and look forward to seeing his continued contributions to the creative industry in Nigeria and beyond.
